Easynet commits to LLU

Sky broadband on the way

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Easynet - the local loop unbundling (LLU) operator bought by Sky for £211m - is to continue installing its kit in BT exchanges to provide broadband services direct to end users.

As it stands today, the ISP has unbundled 232 exchanges giving it access to 20 per cent of UK homes. But by the end of the year around 750 exchanges are due to be unbundled enabling it to offer broadband services to around half of UK households.

And by the end of 2007, Easynet looks set to have unbundled around 1,200 exchanges giving it access to seven in ten UK households.

Details of the firm's ongoing investment in LLU was delivered at a briefing for analysts yesterday. But although it was billed as a strategy update, there was precious little detail about Sky's broadband plans.

A Sky broadband service is due to be unveiled in the second half of 2006 but it's name and pricing details are being kept under wraps.

What is known, though, is that in common with other communications operators, Sky's vision is to provide comms services throughout the home. As well as TV from Sky, a broadband connection would also enable web access, video on demand (VoD) and VoIP, among other services.

"Broadband and integrated whole home solutions represent a real opportunity for growth," said Sky in its presentation adding that this would deliver "more customers, greater loyalty and profitable revenues".

In January the satellite TV outfit kicked off its Sky by Broadband VoD service and has notched up 140,000 registered users in just three months. ®